Who goes there? Baby owls

Navy biologist Bob Schallmann watches some recently hatched burrowing owls at the weapons station. Next to him is biologist Peter Bloom, who has been monitoring the base's avian life for 35 years. "If the burrowing owl were to become an endangered species, the new protections that would have to...

Navy biologist Bob Schallmann watches some recently hatched burrowing owls at the weapons station. Next to him is biologist Peter Bloom, who has been monitoring the base's avian life for 35 years. "If the burrowing owl were to become an endangered species, the new protections that would have to... (Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times)

Navy biologist Bob Schallmann watches some recently hatched burrowing owls at the weapons station. Next to him is biologist Peter Bloom, who has been monitoring the base's avian life for 35 years. "If the burrowing owl were to become an endangered species, the new protections that would have to...Bob Chamberlin / Los Angeles Times